This extensive list takes you through the full process of starting your 501(c)3! Be sure to read through this list, check off what you've done, and go back and complete the steps that you've missed! Let's get started...
Research Phase
1. You know that you want to start a business helping others and have some ideas, but have no clue where to start
2. You learn what a nonprofit is (and isn't)
3. Learn the pros and cons of starting a nonprofit
4. Develop a mission and vision statement
5. Conduct market research to figure out if your idea is needed in the community (determine key competitors)
6. Start thinking about board members (partners)
7. Write out an overview of what programs you want to offer
8. Write out short term and long-term goals for your nonprofit
9. Learn the process to starting a nonprofit
Paperwork Phase
10. Research all state specific requirements for starting nonprofit
11. Choose a name and check availability
12. Recruit and structure board of directors
13. Draft bylaws and conflict of interest policy
14. File articles of incorporation
15. Apply for EIN number
16. Learn difference between long form 1023 and streamlined 1023
17. Complete 501(c)3 application
Planning Phase
18. Write Program Narratives
19. Determine the price you will charge for services
20. Determine how you will deliver services
21. Determine if you will sell any products/services for revenue
22. Determine the location/space you will need to perform services
23. Determine who your target client is (who you want to help)
24. Determine how to attract clients
25. Determine potential partners
26. Determine how to attract potential donors
27. Determine how to recruit staff, volunteers, and board members
28. Determine potential partners
29. Determine roles and responsibilities of CEO
30. Determined employee roles and responsibilities
31. Determine contracted services roles and responsibilities
32. Determine volunteer roles and responsibilities
33. Determine board member roles and responsibilities
34. Determine keys to success
35. Determine objectives (desired outcomes)
36. Create startup budget
37. Create program budget
38. Create organizational budget
Preparation Phase
39. Purchase a website
40. Register for a nonprofit bank account
41. Create Facebook business page and apply for donation button
42. Open tech soup account
43. Apply for Google For Nonprofits (Includes free email)
44. Apply for Canva for nonprofits
45. Set up PayPal business account and PayPal link
46. Apply for SAM.gov
47. Develop a list of startup funders
48. Develop a list of potential candidates for offices/buildings
Action Phase
49. Draft and send in kind donation letters
50. Start a donation campaign
51. Write first grant
52. Host your first fundraiser
53. Contact potential partners to find out how they (or you) can help
54. Market programs and services
55. Serve clients!!
Wouldn’t it be nice if you had one place where you could go to learn everything about starting and funding your nonprofit?